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One of the most serious injuries that can be caused by applying eye makeup is a scratched cornea. This can lead to corneal abrasion and can result in an infected cornea.

The cornea is the clear front surface of your eye and is located directly in front of the iris, which is the colored part of your eye. The cornea has several layers that help protect the eye.

Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, can result from expired makeup or makeup that has not been properly sealed. Always be sure to check expiration dates and tightly close the lid on your eyeshadows, eyeliners, mascara tubes, concealers and powders.

Most makeup contains preservatives that prevent bacteria from forming. However, stop using any makeup that starts to irritate your eyes to avoid the possibility of pink eye.

If you are aware that you have a specific allergy, to latex or fragrance, for instance, always check for possible allergens when purchasing makeup.

An allergic reaction is marked by redness, irritation, swelling and infection of the eye. If you experience this after you purchase your makeup, contact an eye doctor to find out what your eyes are sensitive to, and get proper care.

Do not continue to use that product.

Contact lens wearers may be more susceptible to problems related to eye makeup. As a lens wearer myself, I often have a complicated relationship with my eye makeup.

Contact lenses can get contaminated if even the smallest amount of product comes in contact with them.

We value and respect our HERWriters' experiences, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice, although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.